Catherine and Sanford Berg are two of our longest-tenured members of the United Church of Gainesville. They joined UCG in 1971- while we were still worshipping at the Presbyterian Student Center on University Avenue. Since then, they have been loyal and loving members and have seen us through many shifts, turns, transitions, and triumphs. They are preparing to move (part-time) to North Carolina, and though they promise they will remain members and friends forever, this is still a significant transition. So please join me in wishing them the best and thanking them for their love and service to UCG.

Catherine was a member of the search committee that called Larry Reimer to be our minister in 1974. Sanford was their tour guide, tasked with driving Larry and Sandy around Gainesville to show them all the beautiful things our community had in store for them. The friendship they struck up that day is still going strong.

Catherine and Sanford have been essential leaders and important voices to the many transitions our church has undergone, from purchasing our current property to the building of our offices, education wing, and Sanctuary. They have supported us through our discussions and decision to be an Open and Affirming Congregation. They have both served on numerous boards and committees, including serving as moderators of our church, and have been active supporters and pioneers as our program offerings grew.  Catherine was also the coordinator of our Children’s Programs for a time. Both have been generous supporters of our music ministry as well. Not only do they share their gifts of creativity and music, but it was they who donated both of our beautiful pianos to the church. 

Catherine has played for dozens of memorial services, special services, Sunday services, and it was her rendition of “Finlandia” on my interview weekend that I attribute to a grace-filled whisper from God that this is the place for me. And if you’ve ever come to one of our Christmas Eve services, chances are good you have heard her moving rendition of, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” which sets the perfect tone for a candlelight Christmas Eve service; contemplative, hopeful and beautiful. 

Sanford has been a loyal supporter of both the choir and the Hogtown Strutters, holding down the woodwind section since the Strutters’ inception. Sanford has also led in other church areas, like when he played Moses for our children’s first experiential Exodus experience, or when he and Stan Smith and Larry Reimer recount the mythical inception of the Squirrel Pie Christmas Gathering for the Men’s Lunch Group every year.

With Sanford and Catherine departing to North Carolina, an important part of our shared history goes with them. But they will not be forgotten and will always be welcomed back as our friends, mentors, and companions on the journey. This is not goodbye- this is simply farewell for now until we meet again. 

Blessings to you, Catherine and Sanford, and thank you for all you have done and continue to do for our United Church of Gainesville. You will be missed.

Andy Bachmann